Since you still like the cabinetry, you could certainly consider just switching out the countertop and backsplash. A light countertop with off-white vs. white tones would pair nicely with the wood tones and current flooring assuming you are keeping that. You could also change the window blind to a Roman shade.

I hate to see anyone spend a LOT of money on trying to "update" a kitchen with a bad layout and no deep drawers in lower cabinets. It really doesn't improve anything. Think long and hard before you do anything in this kitchen.

Please don’t touch your beautiful cabinets. I like the idea of new countertop and backsplash and a colorful rug. And get a new under mount sink and fancy faucet while you’re at it

I honestly like your countertop you have now because it's not busy. I'm personally am not big on the movement in granite so YMMV. If I were going to change anything, maybe the backsplash to something solid without accent pieces. I would add a roman shade or valance to the window for some interest/softness/color. I would also add an area rug for the same reasons. Maybe even just a small one in front of the sink. Changing the lighting would make a big impact. I'd consider adding pendants over the peninsula and changing the chandelier. If there isn't enough overhang at the peninsula for stools I would remove them. If there is and/or you need a few extra seats you could replace them. I think the round backless stools are fine. I also like the backless saddle type stools. You could change the hardware out to satin nickel or gold. I'd figure out what you want to do with fabric and lights first.

While I do like some white kitchens I find I need them balanced with wood and color. I like stained wood. You're kitchen is nice. It's also nice that your tile is larger and isn't all blotchy in color.

I think the layout is good. An L layout is very efficient for cooking. The cabinets are lovely. I would start with a counter top that you like. Have you thought of quartz instead of granite. I am not a fan of stone counter tops, but when I was researching counter tops for my kitchen I read quartz is less maintenance. Then after you selected and installed your counters work on the back splash, lighting, hardware, etc.

I started reading about quartz vs granite today, so I do need to look at both options. I'm going to start with a countertop and new hinges and hardware, I'm ready to get rid of the formica/laminate tops. I'm just having such trouble finding a color that will look good with the dark cabinets that i can't get anywhere.

Also, I think a cabinet flush fridge is a good idea to give more space between peninsula walkway.

Your kitchen is nice. Your counters and floors are neutral and give you a good base for some decorative changes.

Before making big changes, I would try some minor updates. A nice rug under the table with a new light fixture. Some art on the wall. Add two coordinating runners in the kitchen area, clear off your counters and add a modern valance over the window.

If you make decorative changes and you are still unhappy then I would consider more expensive updates.

You will have an adjustment period going from Formica to stone counters. You can't bang the counters or they can crack and/or chip. Take off a front of one of your cabinet drawers and take it with you when you look at counter tops. If you have an extra piece of floor tile also take that with you.

A flush fridge will give you more floor space, but remember you will also be losing cubic square feet since the fridge will not be as deep.

Pretty cabinets. Test out the medium greenish granites, like "Costa Esmeralda" or "Caribbean".

I'd see if it's feasible to put in a normal range hood, but if the microwave hood works for you, that's fine too.

I honestly don't think you need new counters. Here is a rough Houzz sketch with art, new drum fixture, colorful dishes in the china cabinet, a rug and a runner in front of the fridge.

I love your cabinets. Good for you for keeping them.

My cabinets are a similar shade, but more brown. I'm going for a light quartz (maybe granite). For quartzes, I like Cambria Berwyn, LG Rococco, LG Everest, Silestone Aria and such.

I think a light counter would give you an exciting new update but would keep your kitchen bright. I wouldn't go dark with your darker cabinets.

Thank you all for the suggestions. I also like the mock up dgw, that could make a difference, although I want to use a color other that blue because I finally finished the adjoining living room and it’s all blues. Any suggestions on coordinating color? I’ll attach a photo of my finished living room so you will see what I mean. Maybe decorating and just updating the countertop and/or lighting may be enough. I’m just tired of the laminate.

Very pretty living room. A coral/brighter rust red would be nice in the kitchen. I think it's nice though when a main color is repeated throughout at least the main rooms to help tie things together. Maybe you could find a fabric with the coral and blue together for the kitchen. And seeing your living room, I'd leave the counters as is or stay with something light. I like how the dark cabinets tie in with the couches and the light counters and flooring tie in with the other light elements of the living room. I think it looks cohesive.

Thank you Sheeisback for the compliment on my living room. It's had quite a makeover. I'll post a couple of "before" pics and you'll see what I mean vs the pics I posted above. Since I started this thread a couple of weeks ago, I've had granite countertops installed, work done on the backsplash, new kitchen faucet and ordered new appliances. After I get my appliances in I'll post pics of my updates and go from there. Thank you all again so much :)

Check out Century Hardware's Belvedere collection in Champagne Gold. This hardware would bring out the warm tones of the cherry cabinets and go well with the classic style of your kitchen and living room.

https://www.houzz.com/collections/centuryamerica

Belvedere Collection · More Info

Belvedere 4" c.c. Pull - Champagne Gold · More Info

Belvedere 1-3/8" Knob - Champagne Gold · More Info